I have completed a offset smoker 300gal it works pretty decent even in the colder temps we are having now. What I would like to do is install a lp gas assist or log lighter in the firebox. This way I could get the fire going much easier and when the meat had enough smoke in it and I just wanted to keep things warm I could use the gas assist.
I was wondering if anyone had ever seen one like this? My idea was to run a piece of 1/2" black iron pipe with holes drilled into it for the burner. Down the side of the firebox maybe one on each side. Any other ideas? Also I guess I will need a way for the lp to draw o2 in to the pipe?

 

See if you can find an old propane hot water heater and rob the burner. They work great!

 

how out a cheap salamander unit? that should do it! good for a quic pre heat of the box too, however a cool smoke tastes goo too!

 

Worked on Monster Garage.....

My Burner in my Propane BBQ is shot and I was thinking of making one as well.....will have to get the girlfriend to do the first test run....




kidding of course....

 

The roundt burner in the WH would be great to preheat and maintain but may not work so good for a log lighter as it would clog up with ashes. But I like it, I will look to see if I can find one. I use a lot of trial and error on stuff like this. I had a straight one in my mind and making it out of pipe but this may be cheaper. I have a whole $30 in the whole rig so far.

 

hey mudcat,

Take the burner assembly and mount 90 degrees to wood rack so fire burns horizontally.... Burner will work just fine for heating and if it is mounted at right height it willl work fine for fire starter too. If ya wanna go one better, mount a rack of 2" steel pipe in and out of firebox to make hot water/steam too. PM me if ya want details but I have water heater with temp and press relief valve on it in my 16 ft trailer mounted BBQ pit. It works GREAT and steam along with smoke can turn out one heck of a tender Brisket (shoulder clot) for those north of the Trinity River here in Texas.

Gary

 

I've got my eyes out looking for a burner. Great idea Scuzman00 with the mounting it sideways. My smoke chanber is filled with about 6" of water to give the moisture to the meat. But good idea on the heating water through the firebox. Do you have a tank too? This is actually the second one I've built myself. The first one was sold to a drunk guy with cash. I drove off with cash in hand left 3 butts and 4 slabs of ribs on it for the price he gave me. I've got a buddy that likes to do brisket, i agree it is some good eating. I've never smoked one before though.

 

Another trick some people do is put a baffle plate in your pit under the grating. Your fire box and stack are on the same end. That way the heat goes to one end of the pit under the baffle plate then back over the top of the plate and out the stack. Makes for a more uniform heat. Just something to consider while your building and experimenting.